Cargo Net Locking Assembly for Tamper-Resistant Pallet Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for securing cargo during transportation using a network of bands raise security issues, as they may not effectively prevent access to the cargo or ensure its stability.
Innovation Solution
A locking assembly that secures a cargo net to a pallet using an anchor with a spring-loaded bolt, a retaining ring, and a cable tie, which locks the cargo net in place, preventing unauthorized access and ensuring the cargo's stability during transport.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional bands are used to secure cargo onto a pallet, then the cargo can be easily secured and positioned, but security issues arise during transportation as unauthorized access cannot be effectively prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The locking assembly is divided into distinct functional segments: the anchor with feet for pallet engagement, the spring-loaded bolt for locking/unlocking actions, the retaining ring for cargo net attachment, and the cable tie for final securing. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while collectively providing secure cargo restraint that prevents unauthorized access.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded bolt introduces dynamic functionality to the locking mechanism. The spring enables the bolt to move between extended (locked) and retracted (unlocked) positions, allowing the mechanism to transition between locked and unlocked states. This dynamic capability provides reliable security while maintaining operational flexibility for authorized access.
2Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is implemented to prevent unauthorized access, then security is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded bolt mechanism is designed to automatically maintain the locked position through spring pressure, eliminating the need for continuous external force or complex locking procedures. The mechanism self-secures once engaged, and unauthorized access would require destructive force to overcome the spring-loaded locking action, thereby maintaining ease of operation while ensuring cargo security.
3Reliability
If the bolt is designed to prevent movement from locked to unlocked position, then security is enhanced, but the mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The spring is pre-loaded to exert continuous force on the bolt, creating preliminary anti-action that prevents the bolt from moving from the locked to unlocked position. This pre-applied spring force actively resists any attempt to move the bolt, ensuring the locked position remains stable and secure without requiring additional complex restraining mechanisms.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The locking assembly effectively secures the cargo net to the pallet, preventing unauthorized access and ensuring the cargo's stability by maintaining a locked position unless intentionally destroyed, thus enhancing security and preventing theft.
Implementation Method 1
a spring that is positioned in the first hole of the neck and that biases the bolt between a locked position in which the base member is prevented from sliding in the channel and an unlocked position in which the base member slides in the channel
Data Source
Figure 1a
Figure 1b
Figure 2a~2b
AI summary
A method and a locking assembly (130) for locking a cargo net (110) to a pallet (120) for preventing access to cargo during transportation is disclosed. A locking assembly comprises an anchor (133), a retaining ring (131) and a cable tie (132). The anchor (133) includes a base member (141), a bolt (151), and a spring (161). The retaining ring (131) locks to both the cargo net (110) and the base member (141). The cable tie (132) locks the bolt (151) and the base member (141) together and prevents the bolt (151) from moving from the base member (141). Such that the anchor (133) is prevented from being removed from the pallet (120) without destroying the anchor (133) or the pallet (120).